The cooperative use of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings on rolling mills

May 15, 2024

As a device for realizing the metal rolling process, the core function of a rolling mill, such as the hot rolling mill used in steel production, is to plastically deform metal materials through rollers to obtain the required cross-sectional shape and size. During the operation of the rolling mill, bearings, as key components, carry out important tasks such as transmitting power and supporting rollers. Among them, rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings play different roles in the rolling mill, and through reasonable cooperation, they ensure the stable and efficient operation of the rolling mill.

First, let's understand the application of rolling thrust bearings in rolling mills. Thrust bearings, also called axial bearings, are mainly used to carry axial loads. In rolling mills, since the rollers will receive reaction forces from the metal materials during the rolling process, these forces often appear in the form of axial forces. At this time, the thrust bearing, with its unique feature of being able to handle high axial loads due to its design with multiple thrust washers and rolling elements, plays a key supporting role. Through its unique structural design, the thrust bearing can effectively disperse and withstand these axial forces, ensuring the stable operation of the roller.

Rolling thrust bearings, meticulously crafted with two or more thrust washers and several rolling elements, are a testament to precision engineering. The thrust washer, meticulously divided into a shaft piece and a seat piece, and the rolling elements, usually combined into a whole by an iron or copper cage, form a structure that can withstand large axial loads with exceptional stability and durability. In rolling mills, the strategic use of these rolling thrust bearings is of paramount importance, significantly reducing the axial vibration of the rollers and enhancing rolling accuracy, thereby instilling confidence in the stability of the rolling mill.

The picture above is the thrust tapered roller bearing 350981C produced by FV.

At the same time, radial bearings also play an indispensable role in rolling mills. Unlike thrust bearings, radial bearings are mainly used to bear radial loads. In rolling mills, the rollers generate radial forces during rotation, and radial bearings mainly bear these forces. The structure of a radial bearing generally consists of inner and outer rings, rolling elements(ball or roller), and a cage. Its design enables the bearing to stably support the roller and withstand forces from the radial direction.

In the actual operation of the rolling mill, the cooperative use of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings is crucial. On the one hand, the two need to work together to withstand the reaction force from the metal material. The thrust bearing is responsible for bearing the axial force and ensuring the axial stability of the roller. In contrast, the radial bearing is responsible for bearing the radial force and keeping the roller stable during rotation. This fit enables the rolling mill to remain stable during the complex rolling process, thereby improving rolling efficiency and quality. For instance, in a hot rolling mill, the thrust bearing is typically located at the top of the mill, while the radial bearings are distributed along the length of the rollers.

Furthermore, the combined use of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the overall structure and operating conditions of the rolling mill. For instance, during the design and installation of a rolling mill, the load distribution and installation of the bearings must be meticulously calculated to ensure their optimal functioning. Equally important, regular inspection and maintenance of the bearings are not just imperative but a crucial responsibility. Timely replacement of severely worn bearings is a crucial responsibility that can prevent failures and safety accidents, fostering a sense of ownership and care for the equipment.

The picture above is a thrust spherical roller bearing.

In conclusion, the cooperative use of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings in rolling mills is not just a linchpin but the very foundation of ensuring their stable and efficient operation. With meticulous structural design, precise installation, and regular maintenance, these bearings can effectively withstand the reaction force from metal materials, providing a robust guarantee for the normal production of the rolling mill. Moreover, as technology advances and application requirements improve, the performance and precision of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings will continue to evolve, instilling a sense of optimism about the future of the rolling mill industry.

To sum up, the cooperative use of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings in rolling mills is an important link in the rolling process. Together, they support the stable operation of the rollers and ensure the smooth progress of the rolling process. In future development, with the continuous advancement of technology and the improvement of application requirements, the performance and accuracy of rolling thrust bearings and radial bearings will be further improved, providing strong support for the sustainable development of the rolling mill industry.